Justice Vs Law: Resistance As Duty

The phrase when injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty is often attributed to Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence. However, there is no evidence that he ever said or wrote these words. The first known attribution to Jefferson was in 2006, although the saying has been in circulation for decades. Despite this, the quote captures some of the ideas that Jefferson expressed in the Declaration of Independence, such as the right and duty of the people to overthrow a despotic government. The quote has been used by both conservatives and liberals in the United States, particularly in relation to political resistance and opposition.

Resistance as a moral responsibility

The phrase "when injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty" is often misattributed to Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence. While Jefferson did believe in rebellion and wrote about the value of "the spirit of resistance to government", there is no evidence that he ever expressed this exact sentiment. The phrase first appeared in print in 2006 and was likely popularized by social activists in Australia.

Despite its disputed origins, the phrase captures a powerful idea: that there are times when resistance to authority is not only a right but a moral responsibility. This concept is deeply rooted in the belief that all people are entitled to equitable treatment, support for their human rights, and a fair allocation of community resources. When laws or policies perpetuate injustice, oppression, or the denial of basic human rights, it becomes the duty of those who are able to resist and strive for change.

At its core, resistance as a moral responsibility is about recognizing the inherent worth and rights of all people and taking action to uphold those rights when they are threatened or denied. This may involve advocating for the marginalized and disenfranchised, challenging discriminatory laws or practices, or working to address systemic injustices that perpetuate inequality and oppression. It is about striving for a society that upholds the principles of justice, liberty, and respect for human rights above all else.

However, it is important to acknowledge that resistance is not without risks. Throughout history, those who have dared to challenge injustice have often faced backlash, persecution, or even violence. Despite these dangers, the belief that resistance becomes a duty in the face of injustice serves as a powerful call to action for individuals and communities committed to creating a more just and equitable world.

The right to rebel

In modern times, this concept has been invoked by people across the political spectrum, from liberals to conservatives, to voice their opposition to certain policies and administrations. The sentiment captures the essence of some of Jefferson's ideas expressed in the Declaration of Independence, where he acknowledges the right and duty of the people to overthrow a despotic government.

However, the right to rebel can also lead to social upheaval, violence, and political instability if channelled negatively. For instance, in Sierra Leone, social injustice and exclusion were significant factors contributing to the prolonged civil war. Similarly, disenfranchised youths in Central America and Jamaica turned to violence and identity-based gangs due to a lack of opportunities and representation.

The line between constructive rebellion and destructive insurrection is a fine one. As Emmanuel Mangok Deng, a former Secretary for Political Mobilization and Organization in the SPLM-IO Youth League in South Sudan, asserts, diplomacy should be utilised as a tool when claiming our rights and challenging injustice. It is essential to recognise the potential consequences of rebellion and strive for positive change through peaceful means whenever possible.

In conclusion, the right to rebel is a double-edged sword. While it empowers individuals to stand against injustice, it also carries the risk of destabilising societies if not exercised responsibly. As citizens, it is our duty to find constructive ways to resist and create positive change, ensuring that our actions align with our values and aspirations for a better world.

Youth as agents of change

The sentiment "when injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty" has been attributed to Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence. However, there is no evidence that he ever said or wrote these words, and the Thomas Jefferson Foundation has called the quote "spurious". The first known attribution to Jefferson was in 2006, although the saying has been in circulation for decades.

Despite this, the quote captures some of the ideas that Jefferson expressed in the Declaration of Independence, such as the right and duty of the people to overthrow a despotic government. The quote and its underlying sentiment have resonated with people across the political spectrum, from liberals to conservatives, and have been invoked in various political contexts, including opposition to President Donald Trump.

The idea that resistance becomes a duty when faced with unjust laws is a powerful concept, and it is particularly relevant for youth as agents of change. Young people have the vitality and fervour to drive pursuit and change. They are the future leaders, parents, professionals, and workers, and they are valuable assets in society today. Their potential to contribute meaningfully to societal progress cannot be overlooked.

In South Sudan, for example, the youth play a pivotal role in the nation's development. They constitute a significant economic force and have the potential to become a new cadre of entrepreneurs crucial for the country's prosperity. However, neglecting their legitimate grievances, such as unemployment, inadequate education, limited participation in decision-making, and restricted social mobility, may lead to frustration and exploitation by opportunistic politicians, potentially resulting in violence.

To prevent this, it is essential to involve young people in today's decisions and policies that affect them. By providing increased financial, educational, and technical support, stakeholders can cultivate the promise and potential of youth, enabling them to become agents of positive change and development.

In conclusion, youth are not passive recipients of state policies or victims of processes. They are proactive agents capable of initiating innovative discourses and practices to challenge and reshape existing strategies. It is crucial to actively engage with and amplify their voices, harnessing their energy, creativity, and skills for the betterment of society.

Social justice and equal rights

The phrase "when injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty" is often misattributed to Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence. While Jefferson did believe in rebellion and wrote about the value of "the spirit of resistance to government", there is no evidence that he ever said or wrote the phrase.

The phrase first appeared in print in 2006, although it had been in circulation for decades prior. It is believed to have been popularized by social activists in Australia, specifically in the context of protesting the imprisonment of refugee children in detention centres.

The sentiment expressed in the phrase has been invoked by people across the political spectrum, from liberals opposed to former US President Donald Trump to conservatives critical of political developments in South Sudan.

Regardless of its origin, the phrase captures the idea that when laws are perceived as unjust, it becomes the duty of citizens to resist and challenge them. This concept is closely tied to the broader themes of social justice and equal rights.

Social justice refers to the pursuit of justice in terms of the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society. It involves promoting a just society by challenging injustice and valuing diversity. Social justice is achieved when all people are treated equitably, their human rights are supported, and community resources are allocated fairly.

Equal rights, a fundamental component of social justice, implies that all individuals are entitled to the same legal, political, economic, and social rights, regardless of their identity or background. This includes rights such as freedom of speech, equal opportunity, and protection under the law.

However, achieving equal rights is not merely about providing "equal opportunity" in a vacuum. It requires addressing systemic injustices and inequalities that have historically disadvantaged certain groups, such as those based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or other characteristics.

Resistance, in the context of social justice and equal rights, can take many forms. It can involve protesting, advocating for policy changes, engaging in civil disobedience, or simply refusing to comply with unjust laws. Throughout history, acts of resistance have been instrumental in advancing social justice and securing equal rights for marginalized communities.

For example, the Civil Rights Movement in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s employed various forms of resistance, including boycotts, sit-ins, and marches, to challenge racial segregation and discrimination. Similarly, the LGBTQ+ rights movement has utilized resistance tactics such as the Stonewall riots and the Act Up demonstrations to demand equal rights and recognition for the LGBTQ+ community.

In conclusion, the phrase "when injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty" encapsulates the belief that citizens have a responsibility to challenge unjust laws. This idea is deeply connected to the broader goals of social justice and equal rights, which aim to create a more equitable and just society for all. Through resistance, activism, and collective efforts, it is possible to strive towards a world where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness, regardless of their identity or background.

Injustice and the law

The phrase "when injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty" is often attributed to Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence. However, there is no evidence that he ever said or wrote this phrase, and it has been deemed "spurious" by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation. The first known attribution to Jefferson was in 2006, although the saying has been in circulation for decades.

The phrase captures some of the ideas that Jefferson expressed in the Declaration of Independence, which states that when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is the right and duty of the people to overthrow such a government.

The concept of "when injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty" resonates with people across the political spectrum, and has been used by both conservatives and liberals in the United States to express their opposition to certain political ideologies. For example, during the presidency of Donald Trump, liberals shared the quote with a special emphasis on the word "resistance".

The phrase has also been used by social activists in Australia to oppose the High Court of Australia's decision to detain refugee children in immigration detention centres.

In the context of South Sudan, the phrase has inspired reflection on the responsibility of the younger generation to actively engage in and form informed opinions on national issues, particularly in light of the country's tumultuous history and the neglect of basic needs by political leaders.

While the origin of the phrase may be uncertain, its enduring appeal lies in its powerful message of standing up against injustice, especially when it is perpetuated or sanctioned by those in power. It serves as a reminder that resistance and activism can be necessary to uphold values such as freedom and social justice when they are threatened by unjust laws or policies.

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